PHOENIX — As the Minnesota Gophers prepare for the Rate Bowl against New Mexico on December 29, 2025, offensive coordinator Greg Harbaugh highlighted some of quarterback Drake Lindsey‘s standout performances from the regular season. Lindsey, a redshirt freshman, has made an impressive impact by completing 63% of his passes, totaling 2,235 yards, with 16 touchdowns and just six interceptions. His achievements place him among the top ten in single-season records for the Gophers.
“I want him to always go out there and be feared,” Harbaugh stated, emphasizing the team’s ambitions for Lindsey’s performance as they look to the future.
Lindsey’s Signature Throws
One of Harbaugh’s favorite moments from Lindsey this season occurred during the Gophers’ 31-28 win over Rutgers on September 27. In a pivotal moment of the game, Lindsey executed a guard-pull play-action pass that resulted in a touchdown. Tight end Jameson Geers was the intended receiver on a crossing route, but Lindsey made a surprising decision to throw to receiver Le’Meke Brockington, who was running a post route.
“Funny thing on that is, I can tell you how many times I said to Drake to throw the post on that: Zero,” Harbaugh recalled. “He saw the grass and threw it. It’s that type of throw.”
Lindsey’s instinct paid off, as he found Brockington for a 9-yard touchdown that tied the game at 14-14, showcasing his ability to adapt and respond under pressure. “That’s not necessarily a read in the play,” Lindsey explained. “I just kind of felt the space and trusted Le’Meke to be there.”
In that same game, Lindsey connected on a stunning 78-yard bomb to Jalen Smith, marking the Gophers’ longest pass play of the season and fueling a comeback from a 14-0 deficit. Harbaugh also praised Lindsey’s performance during a crucial 23-20 overtime victory against Michigan State on November 1, where he completed a vital third-down conversion to Brockington during a two-minute drill.
Reflecting on the Season
While Lindsey’s season has been marked by impressive performances, he has also faced challenges. In a 41-3 loss against Iowa on October 25, he threw three interceptions, a moment he reflected on with a sense of learning. “There’s a few throws that you know you always want again,” he said, acknowledging the ups and downs of a competitive season.
Former Gophers quarterback Tanner Morgan noted Lindsey’s potential, stating, “You saw his arm talent and just natural ability to throw the football pop” in the season opener against Buffalo.
As Lindsey looks ahead to the upcoming Rate Bowl, he is not only focusing on his passing game but also on his running abilities. He humorously acknowledged his limited rushing attempts this season but highlighted a notable play against Michigan State, where a key stiff-arm helped secure a victory in overtime. “Probably the Michigan State one. That was a cool experience,” he remarked.
With the Rate Bowl approaching, the Gophers are optimistic about Lindsey’s potential to build on his successful season. Harbaugh aims to instill confidence in Lindsey, encouraging him to embrace his ability to make any throw when it counts. As the team prepares to face New Mexico, all eyes will be on Lindsey to see how he continues to develop and lead the Gophers in this important matchup.
